Smart Fortwo crash test results a mixed bag

NHTSA crash test ratings are in for the 2008 smart fortwo, with mixed results. Despite being a very small car, the Fortwo was able to pass every crash and rollover test, though the ratings ranged from fair to excellent.

Driver and passenger frontal crash testing resulted in ratings of four stars and three stars, respectively, with a higher likelihood of head injury for passenger than for driver. The Fortwo's side crash rating earned a highly respectable five stars -- the highest rating available -- but also prompted a 'Safety Concern' due to the driver's side door unlatching and opening during the test, posing a higher likelihood of occupant ejection in the event of the crash. According to the ratings information, Safety Concerns do not necessarily effect the overall star rating, allowing the Fortwo to retain its five stars despite the latch failure. The Fortwo's rollover rating was three stars, pegging the city car at a 21 percent likelihood of tipping in the event of a crash.

Overall, the results may or may not surprise you, given the Smart Fortwo's diminutive size. Key to the Fortwo doing as well as it did, was likely down to what the automaker calls a "tridon safety cell" (pictured) which is designed to crush and absorb energy in the event of a crash, as is the surrounding area.